April 5, 2025 | Olneyville Resilience Hub
In partnership with ONE Neighborhood Builders, Central Providence Health Equity Zone (CPO HEZ), and the Providence Neighborhood Planting Program (PNPP)

Earlier this month, something special took root in the heart of Olneyville. Over 50 neighbors gathered at the Olneyville Resilience Hub for Providence’s very first Community Tree Forum—an inspiring, hands-on event all about reimagining our urban forest together.

Organized in collaboration with ONE Neighborhood Builders, CPO HEZ, Providence Neighborhood Planting Program (PNPP) and the Olneyville Resilience Hub the forum was a celebration of neighborhood wisdom, shared learning, and collective action.

🌳 Why a Community Tree Forum?

These neighborhood-specific forums are designed to invite residents into the heart of the conversation around urban forestry. It’s not just about where and what trees get planted—it’s about who gets to decide. Attendees learned how tree planting works in Providence, shared local knowledge, and helped shape the future of our neighborhood canopy.

Because the truth is: trees aren’t just nice—they’re necessary.

  • 🌿 Trees clean our air, removing pollutants and helping keep our hearts and lungs healthy.

  • 🌿 Trees cool our neighborhoods, lowering temperatures by up to 10°F during summer heatwaves.

  • 🌿 Trees reduce flooding, intercepting stormwater during intense weather events.

  • 🌿 Trees calm our minds, reduce stress, and create welcoming spaces to gather.

  • 🌿 Trees support wildlife, offering food and shelter for birds, pollinators, and other non-human neighbors.

What Happened at the Forum?

The day was filled with curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. Neighbors rotated through interactive stations that helped spark ideas and collect feedback:

“Where Do You Want to See Trees?”
With maps in hand, attendees identified specific blocks, parks, and corners that need more green—and shared personal stories about the places they love.

“What Types of Trees Do You Want?”
Our WRWC TerraCorps members led this thoughtful station, teaching folks about the best tree species for different environments. Whether it’s shade trees, pollinator-friendly blooms, or resilient native varieties, everyone had a chance to weigh in.

“Who Plants and Cares for Our Trees?”
This discussion-focused area explored who’s been doing the work—and how we can make tree planting and care more inclusive, equitable, and community-powered.

Kid-Friendly Tree Fun!
Young tree-lovers got to draw, build, and imagine the forest of their dreams while grownups did some deep-rooted thinking.

🌳 What’s Next?

This was just the beginning. As the Providence Tree Plan takes shape, forums like this ensure that the people who live in our neighborhoods are the ones guiding the growth. From choosing species to selecting sites, the 02909 community has a voice—and it’s already making a difference.

We’re deeply grateful to everyone who came out to dream and scheme about the urban forest our neighborhoods deserve. Together, we’re building a future that’s healthier, cooler, more beautiful, and more just—one tree at a time.

Do you love trees? You won’t want to miss the next Community Tree Forum! Stay tuned, stay rooted, and let’s keep growing together.